Boundary Issues Figure in Ethics Sanctions

Two social workers are sanctioned for Code of Ethics violations.

The NASW National Board of Directors' Executive Committee has
approved sanctions against two social workers for NASW Code of
Ethics violations, based on surrogate complaints filed by NASW
chapters.

Deborah A. Willey. The committee approved the sanctioning
of Deborah A. Willey in September 2006, based on a surrogate complaint
submitted by the New Hampshire Chapter.

Willey entered into a settlement agreement with the State of
New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice in which she admitted
to engaging in a dual relationship with significant boundary violations
while treating a patient over a period of more than three years.

The board reprimanded Willey and revoked her license to practice
social work for a minimum of four years, beginning May 13, 2005.
To reapply for her license, Willey must meet board requirements
including but not limited to obtaining psychological evaluation
and treatment, engaging in continuing education during the period
of revocation and engaging in supervision for no less than 12
consecutive months.

The committee approved suspension of her NASW membership and
any NASW-issued credentials, publication of the findings and sanctions
in the national NASW News, and publication in the "Sanctions
in Force" list until May 13, 2009.

Willey may be reconsidered for NASW membership at a future date,
with verification that she completed the licensing board's recommended
actions and that her license is reinstated.

Anthony Matranga. The NASW Executive Committee approved
sanctions against Anthony Matranga of Texas based on a surrogate
complaint submitted by the Texas Chapter.

In December 2003, the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners'
Ethics Committee issued an agreed order concluding that Matranga
violated the rules for social work licensure by engaging in conduct
unbecoming to the profession of social work.

The board concluded in part that that Matranga violated rules
related to reporting neglect and abuse, setting and maintaining
professional boundaries, having sexual contact with a client and
exploiting his position of trust with a client or person who has
been a client.

The board imposed a 10-year suspension of Matranga's license,
among other recommendations during the period of suspension.

Based on Texas board's findings, the NASW Executive Committee
found Matranga in violation of the NASW Code of Ethics sections
1.06(b) Conflicts of Interest and 1.09(a)(c) Sexual Relationships.

The committee approved suspension of his NASW membership and
credentials, publication of the findings in the national NASW
News, and publication in the "Sanctions
in Force" list for 10 years or until such time as Matranga
provides proof that he has met all conditions set out by the Texas
board, whichever is earlier.